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The Human Mirror Neuron System
Abstract
Following the discovery in Rhesus monkeys of “mirror neurons” that fire during both execution and observation of motor behavior, human studies have documented a fronto-parietal mirror neuron system (MNS) with apparently similar functions. We discuss some issues related to the human research, including measurement with neuro imaging techniques and recent neuro technologies for manipulating regional brain function. We note the remarkable overlap between several brain systems studied in people: the MNS, the Theory of Mind (ToM), the “self”-system of the brain, and the neural “default mode.” The functional architecture of these systems may have important implications for how the MNS is organized and its functions. We propose that “auto-mirroring” in which self-observation of one’s own motor behavior can be either facilitated or blocked, may be a fundamental aspect of the MNS. Finally, the implications of hemispheric asymmetry in the right and left MNS are discussed. Although MNS research is in its infancy, it bears promise to reveal basic aspects of the brain’s functional architecture.
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